Experience a Bahamas Cruise

The Bahamas, located less than 60 miles off the east coast of Florida, are a popular cruise choice for experienced cruisers and novices alike. Proximity to the U.S. mainland means you can fit a Bahamas island cruise into a long weekend or a Monday-through-Friday vacation (though longer itineraries are available). The islands are gorgeous, with palm-lined beaches of soft sand and mesmerizing turquoise waters. And, you can easily divide your time between enjoying the amenities of the ship and taking in sights and excursions at each port of call.

Nassau, located on New Providence Island, is known for beautiful white sand beaches and for great shopping. Right next to the cruise ship dock, you can browse Festival Place for handmade crafts, conch shell jewelry and straw hats. For more straw goods, visit the Straw Market on West Bay Street. Nassau also has charming and elegant boutiques brimming with leather goods, jewelry, perfume and watches. If history interests you more than shopping, don’t miss Fort Charlotte, where the ramparts and dungeons date from the 18th century. A port call in Nassau also presents lots of opportunities to swim, snorkel, and get acquainted with sea life.

At Freeport, located on Grand Bahama Island, you can ride a horse across the sandy beaches, take a catamaran to a prime spot for snorkeling or simply log some sunbathing time. If you’re interested in colonial architecture, you may want to tour the town and its colorful colonial-era buildings. You can dive down to explore a shipwreck or a limestone cavern, hike through a nature center, or swim with friendly dolphins.

Several cruise lines own private islands in The Bahamas, where you can enjoy a day of sun and fun. There’s usually a variety of beach activities to choose from, and perhaps some hiking or other active pursuits. But, no one will mind if you just want to lie in a hammock and enjoy the breeze. Most cruise lines provide an island buffet for lunch, with everything tasting delicious in the fresh air and tropical surroundings.

For more ideas about things to see and do on your cruise to The Bahamas, talk with your Cruise Holidays personal cruise expert.